The tough economic conditions in Kenya have driven many elderly persons to engage in the illicit trade of chang’aa.

A series of raids conducted by a multi-agency team in the county have resulted in numerous arrests, predominantly of elderly women selling both chang’aa and bhang.

Police reports from various stations across the county indicate a significant number of women involved in the distillation and sale of the banned liquor.

In Rarieda Sub-County, a 65-year-old woman recently appeared before the Madiany Magistrate’s Court for possession of 28 liters of chang’aa and 83 rolls of bhang.

Mary Atieno Obiero, the suspect, was apprehended at her residence where she allegedly conducted the illicit trade.

“Officers from our command, in conjunction with NGAO, conducted an operation in South Ramba Sub-Location, Masamba Village, where they arrested Mary Atieno Obiero, aged 65, in possession of 28 liters of chang’aa and 83 rolls of bhang,” stated the report.

In another incident several kilometers away in Ugunja Sub-County, Margaret Apondi, aged 50, was arrested in Mung’ao Sub-Location for possession of one liter of chang’aa.

She is scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court in Ukwala.